An insider revealed that Apple may be considering dropping the 8-megepixel camera feature for a 12-megapixel one for its upcoming iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus handsets.
The alleged upgrade strongly suggests that Apple is gearing up to compete with other next-gen smartphone models with its latest release.
Apple's 8-megapixel rear camera first debuted in 2011 with the launch of the iPhone 4S. Since then, the Cupertino-based tech firm has equipped its handsets with the same camera feature even though its competitors have move forward with higher megapixel sizes.
For the iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus, however, IHS Technology senior executive Kevin Wang said that the two models will sport 12-megapixel rear cameras. Although Apple decided to upgrade the handsets' cameras, Wang noted that the shooters will have a smaller pixel size.
Despite this detail, tech site G for Games pointed out that the lower pixel size does not automatically mean that the cameras will produce low-quality images. Given the iPhone 6S and iPhone 6S Plus's undisclosed specs, such as camera sensors and other variables, Apple can still equip the handsets with a well performing camera.
As to the company's decision for dropping its traditional 8-megapixel feature, GSM Arena noted that it may be Apple's way of getting back into the smartphone race against other companies that use high megapixel shooters for their next-gen handsets.
There are no official announcements yet from Apple as to when the iPhone 6S and its Plus counterpart will be unveiled. However, according to a leak made by Ming Chi-Kuo, an analyst for KGI Securities and trusted Apple insider, the company is targeting to start the handsets' mass production in August of this year, Forbes reported.
Kuo also revealed that the smartphones will be powered by the A9 processor and will come in 4.7 and 5.5-inch display variants. The devices are also expected to come with Force Touch technology.
